AUSTRALIAN GRAINS INDUSTRY - POWERING AHEAD

The $26 billion Australian grains industry’s strength – from paddock to plates and beyond – was on display for Federal Representatives, at a special event held at Parliament House in Canberra.  

The Australian Grains Industry Showcase was co-hosted by the Parliamentary Friends of Primary Producers and Grain Producers Australia (GPA). Held for the third time, it provided unique opportunities connecting elected representatives with grains industry leaders; especially growers. 

Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Primary Producers, Meryl Swanson MP, said it is always an honor to bring our hardworking farmers and their incredible stories right to the heart of Parliament. 

“The grains industry is a pillar of rural Australia, and it’s essential we understand both the challenges they face and the immense value they contribute to our nation,” she said. 

“Thanks to GPA for co-hosting the event and again and bringing industry leaders to our doorstep, for these important engaging discussions.” 

Co-Chair, Rick Wilson MP, said the Parliamentary Friends group is a vital space for building stronger connections between Australian producers, the grains sector and Federal Parliament.  

“The grains industry’s success resonates far beyond regional Australia and underpins our economic stability and food security; including strong grain exports,” he said.  

“As a grain grower prior to entering parliament, it’s obvious the value events such as this provide for all participants, to share valuable two-way knowledge and insights about this significant industry.” 

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, Hon Julie Collins MP also attended and spoke at the event. 

GPA Chair Barry Large, thanked Minister Collins for her contribution, and support provided by other Members of Parliament and their staff, and acknowledged Meryl and Rick for co-hosting the event. 

“I’d also like to thank all of the different industry groups and leaders who supported this event, helping to make it another success, with their individual contributions,” he said. 

This year’s Grains Showcase included contributions by: 

• Grain Trade Australia 

• Grains Australia 

• Australian Export Grains Innovation Centre 

• Grains Research and Development Corporation 

• Plant Health Australia 

• GrainGrowers Ltd.  

• Manildra Group 

• Baking Association of Australia 

• Brewers Association of Australia 

• Independent Brewers Association 

• Spirits and Cocktails Australia 

• Australian Lot Feeders' Association  

• Teys Australia 

• National Centre for Farmer Health 

Attendees were able to learn more about the grains industry and the important groups and processes that link to the industry, trial some of the products using Australian grains and gain an understanding of the interconnected nature of the industry through a video produced by AEGIC. HERE 

Mr Large said another highlight of this year’s event was the addition of ALFA – the peak national body for the Australian feedlot industry – showcasing their industry and products produced. 

“Grain fed beef contributes over 50pc of Australia’s total beef production. Having ALFA alongside us here sends a simple and effective message and one that we want to continue promoting,” he said. 

“High quality Australian grains play an important role feeding our livestock to produce top quality beef. 

“It’s the same story for baking quality breads, brewing the best beers, making good noodles, distilling spirits and when producing so many other quality food products – or oilseeds turned into biofuels. 

“GPA is pleased to play an important role hosting this event and bringing together industry leaders to share good news stories and knowledge about our industry’s collective contribution to the nation’s productivity, quality food production and stronger rural communities and environment.” 

Australian Grains Industry: Fast Facts 

Third largest Australian grain crop expected in 2025-26 – about 62 million tonnes, valued at about $26.5 billion. This compares to $26.7 billion, the year before. (ABARES data HERE)  

• National winter crop production to increase by 2% to 62 million tonnes, (third largest).  

• National summer crop production to remain 21% above the 10-year average  

• Gross value of wheat production – $11 billion  

• Gross value of barley production – $4.4 billion  

• Gross value of sorghum production – $862 million  

• Gross value of canola production – $5.2 billion  

• Gross value of pulses (chickpeas, lentils, lupins, others) – $4.3 billion 

Total Value National Crop (ABARES) grains, oilseeds and pulses: 

2020-21 $20 billion 

2021-22 $28.5 billion 

2022-23 $33 billion 

2023-24 $22 billion 

2024-25 $26.7 billion 

2025-26 $26.5 billion (forecast) 

Total $156.7 billion (average $26.1 billion) 

ENDS 

Further Information: 

GPA Chair Barry Large: 0427 549 023 

GPA Chief Executive Colin Bettles: 0439 901 970